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Header image courtesy of @discoveryprimea (via Instagram)
Makati City is more than just an area full of hubbub. While it’s mostly regarded as a business district, found within its busy streets and towering skyscrapers are cultural nooks and secret hole-in-the-walls that excites and surprises. The city has adapted to the people from all walks of life who frequent it—so there’s definitely something for everyone here.
Travellers will find little trouble in looking for the best accommodation to stay in. Makati City is full of vigour and entertainment, conveniently nestled in the country’s capital centre, and boasts of lodgings that pride in comfort, class, and beauty. Here are eight hotels suited for every kind of budget—whether you’re a backpacker who loves a ‘gram-worthy place or a creature of comfort in need of a luxurious suite.
In this modern lodging perfect for digital nomads, Lub D was built with one goal in mind—to experience travel reimagined. The Makati branch (other Lub D Hostels can be found in Thailand and Cambodia) features spacious and sleek rooms that won’t break the bank and a fun and colourful lobby which houses a co-working space, a restaurant, a bar, and a social space. These special areas encourage interaction and creativity among guests.
Lub D Makati, 7820 Makati Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 8541 6358
This famous Poblacion haunt is popular for a reason—it is located within one of the hippest places in the metro. Z Hostel is brimming with “good vibes only” vibes—the lodging’s tagline, with spacious accommodations, a cafe serving sumptuous Filipino meals and speciality cocktails, and the crowd-favourite Z Roofdeck where guests (and Poblacion bar-hoppers) dance all night with the skyline view of Manila. Experiences at Z are also superb—join their free walking tour and deepen your knowledge on the cultural hotspot of a city and sit down to a traditional fine Filipino dinner at the nearby The Ruins, arranged by the hosts as well.
Z Hostel, 5660 Don Pedro Street, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 8856 0851
This luxury homestay indulges guests in the surrounding luxury in this part of Makati. Tucked within the quiet yet vibrant Rockwell neighbourhood, Aruga’s suites are thoughtfully curated with comfort and efficiency in mind. Dressed in Asian contemporary style, the sophisticated interior design turns an otherwise plain vacation into something grand. It’s also equipped with modern facilities such as a pool and a fitness centre, while the nearby shopping malls assure one won’t run out of things to do here.
Aruga by Rockwell, Waterfront Drive, Rockwell Center, Makati City, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 8818 0000
It sits right along Makati Avenue, the part of the city where everywhere is a short walk or short taxi ride away. City Garden Grand Hotel’s tasteful choice in interior setting welcomes travellers under its contemporary roof, boasting amenities that every modern vacationer needs. With a beautiful city view on top, this hotel is loved for its roof deck restaurant and pool. The massage spa is a popular service here, too!
City Garden Grand Hotel, 8008 Makati Avenue & Kalayaan Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 8888 8181
An apart-hotel with a wide range of spacious accommodation, Citadines is your home away from home—with an upgraded experience. The interiors are elegant and posh, whether you stay in a studio or a two-bedroom apartment, with hints of traditional Filipino craftsmanship alongside modern amenities. Its accessibility to corporate establishments and malls makes it ideal for business travellers who also enjoy other lifestyle activities, with a motley of dining options, active centres, and even art and cultural spots. On weekends, there’s also a pop-up market where you can purchase local fare and other products.
Citadines Salcedo, 148 Valero Street, Salcedo Village, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 8863 9888
First impressions last—and your initial introduction to Discovery Primea as you enter their doors will surely leave an impact on you. Exuding class and polished charm, the hotel’s classic Mediterranean Chinoiserie-inspired aesthetics are subtle yet packs a punch, clean yet extravagant in every angle. The luxury doesn’t end with its looks, as it houses several restaurants that cater to international palates as well as exclusive facilities like the spa, a lifestyle shop, a gym, and the outdoor pool.
Discovery Primea, 6749 Ayala Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 7955 8888
Perhaps what draws the crowd towards I’M Hotel, apart from their cosy, plush accommodation options, is their onsen spa. In the facility, guests are treated to this warm, traditional Japanese therapy that benefits the body in a number of ways. A perfect stay at this urban-chic hotel isn't complete without a dip at their acrylic-bottomed infinity pool, a voyage of the taste buds in their in-house restaurants, a chill hangout at their club lounge, and a night of hues and spirits at their rooftop bar.
I’M Hotel, 7862 Makati Avenue Corner Kalayaan Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 7755 7888
A 30-storey architectural masterpiece set in the heart of Makati, this ultra-luxe haven features modern interiors injected with elements of local culture. Raffles’ wooden flooring and oriental decor give off an old-world charm, while contemporary details like the hotel’s state-of-the-art facilities and sleek yet stylish adornments create the balance in regalness and sophistication. Each suite is a feast for the eyes, with tasteful choices in furnishing and artwork, as well as the magnificent view of the city seen through the floor-to-ceiling windows. They also offer spa services and a premium French and continental dining experience in their restaurant named Mirèio.
Raffles Makati, 1 Raffles Drive, Makati Avenue, Makati, Metro Manila, Philippines | (+632) 7795 0777
Mariel Abanes is a writer/editor from Manila who constantly finds herself packing her bags and exploring places in and outside her country. Apart from juggling her day job and planning out her next itinerary, she spends time immersing in the indie music scene, finding the next great read, and hopping from one social or cultural gathering to the next.
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